Pocket Casts announces public beta for Android app

Pocket Casts has opened up the beta version of its Android app to the public. The company tweeted a link where Android device owners can opt in to using and testing the in-development version of the podcast app. Pocket Casts had been running a closed beta for the service, and it is also running beta tests for Mac and Windows 10 versions of its platform.

Android users 🤖: Our previously closed private beta is now open to all. If you’re up for the occasionally broken build and like to test new features, you can opt-in here: https://t.co/W53Nqexr5Q

Mobile listening options for podcasts, especially on the Android operating system, have been a hot topic of late. Google recently released its own podcast listening app in a move to start chipping away at the big lead Apple currently has in that space.

Pocket Casts also now has more parties invested in its success. The platform was acquired in an unusual joint offer from four public media outfits. NPR, WNYC Studios, WBEZ Chicago, and This American Life united to acquire the app in May. They also brought in former iHeartRadio Executive Vice President and general manager Owen Grover to act as Pocket Casts’ new CEO.